B.S. in Journalism

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Journalism at Mississippi College, offered through the Department of Communication, is designed to prepare students for a dynamic career in the evolving media landscape. This program focuses on developing fundamental skills in accurate and effective storytelling across various platforms, including digital, print, and broadcast media. It aims to equip students with a strong understanding of communication ethics, law, and research, alongside practical skills in reporting, writing, editing, and multimedia production. The B.S. degree in Journalism at Mississippi College emphasizes a balance of theoretical knowledge and hands-on application, preparing graduates for a wide range of roles within news organizations, digital media companies, and other communication-driven fields.

Curriculum: The B.S. in Journalism curriculum at Mississippi College integrates foundational communication courses with specialized journalism training. Beyond the university's core requirements, students typically complete a set of core Communication courses that include Communication Research & Writing, Fundamentals of Digital Communication, Communication Ethics, Interpersonal Communication, Public Speaking, Communication Law, and Public Relations. The journalism concentration then delves into specific skills with courses such as Introduction to Journalism, Multimedia Journalism, and Public Relations Writing. Practical experience is embedded through required Journalism Lab courses and a crucial Communication Internship. This blend ensures students not only understand the principles of effective communication but also gain hands-on experience with industry-standard tools and techniques.

Research Focus: The B.S. in Journalism program at Mississippi College emphasizes an applied research focus, training students to gather, evaluate, and present information accurately and ethically. While not laboratory-based, the program's research component centers on the methodologies crucial to journalistic inquiry: fact-finding, source verification, data analysis for reporting, and understanding media consumption patterns. Courses like "Communication Research & Writing" and engagement with student media groups (e.g., Blue & Gold Media, MCTV) provide opportunities for students to conduct primary research, analyze news trends, and understand the impact of journalism in a democratic society. The program fosters critical thinking about media's role and encourages student-led projects that examine various aspects of news dissemination and media influence.

Industry Engagement: Mississippi College's B.S. in Journalism program prioritizes strong industry engagement to provide students with invaluable real-world experience. The Department of Communication requires internships of all majors, allowing students to gain hands-on experience with a variety of media and journalistic organizations, public relations and government agencies, and businesses. Students have a track record of excellent experiences with diverse employers. Furthermore, students can gain practical skills by participating in Blue & Gold Media, the student-run media group that covers university news, sports, and arts through a weekly news program (MCTV), podcasts, and live sports broadcasts. These co-curricular activities, coupled with faculty mentorship, connect students directly with professional practices and provide vital networking opportunities within the media industry.

Global Perspective: Mississippi College is committed to fostering a global perspective across its academic programs, and the B.S. in Journalism contributes by preparing students to report on and understand an increasingly diverse and interconnected world. The curriculum includes courses that encourage students to consider "journalism's role in a democracy as well as in an increasingly diverse and globalized society." While specific "international journalism" courses for this B.S. were not explicitly detailed, the foundational communication courses and ethical considerations prepare students to approach diverse narratives with cultural sensitivity. Furthermore, Mississippi College offers a variety of study abroad opportunities through its McMillan Center for Education Abroad, including faculty-led trips and exchange programs to various international locations. These opportunities allow journalism students to immerse themselves in new cultures, observe international media practices firsthand, and broaden their understanding of global issues that inform responsible and culturally aware reporting.